How Important is the Internet to Architecture and Architects?

It is pretty well acknowledged that the Internet has changed the world, with easy, universal access to information and instant communication across the planet. But how has it impacted the daily life of an architect? Has it changed the way they work? And is the full potential of the Internet being utilised? Habits are changing.

It is pretty well acknowledged that the Internet has changed the world, with easy, universal access to information and instant communication across the planet. But how has it impacted the daily life of an architect? Has it changed the way they work? And is the full potential of the Internet being utilised?

Habits are changing. Generations of people are growing up unaware of a time without computers. These people have become used to instantaneous information, unable to comprehend a situation where questions can’t be answered immediately. In the past, someone looking for an architect would probably rely on word of mouth for a recommendation. Nowadays it is more likely they will rely on google, with a quick search of ‘Architect in .........’ bringing a list of potential suitors and a range of websites for the customer to peruse.

This is where each practice’s dedication to internet marketing comes into play. There are a range of website designs, from the inspirational to the laughable. One man's practice can be made to look like multi-national company and the biggest in the business can look like a bunch of part-timers. Some companies have really embraced the digital age, but there are still far too many that see the Internet as a box to tick. Do we have a website? Yes. Done.

In these tough economic times surely any way you can stimulate business must be jumped upon. So perhaps it is time to look again at the way you use the Internet.

Is your website the best it can be? Is it doing the job you want it to? Do you use facebook, linkedin and twitter to promote your work? Are you using the Internet to its full capability?

Ashley Roberts is a recent graduate of the University of Nottingham, England, with a Diploma in Architecture and is now studying for his part-three accreditation. Still living in Nottingham, but with strong links to Liverpool and London, he has a pas...

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